'Why Teach Art?' is a course developed for art educators to explore some of the criticisms and justifications for school art programs. The course is offered as a free OpenCourseWare through The Open University.

Why Teach Art?: Course Specifics

Degree Level

Free

Audio

Video

Downloads

Undergraduate

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Lectures/Notes

Study Materials

Tests/Quizzes

Yes

Yes

No

Why Teach Art?: Course Description

Art educators often find themselves defending the value of art as part of the regular curriculum. 'Why Teach Art?' explores some of the values and principles behind the need for art education. Course materials include discussions of the benefits of art. The course also prepares art educators with the tools they need for answering questions from administrators and students, both of whom may question the value of art education. This introductory level course can benefit art educators at all grade levels and any type of educational institution. The course should take an estimated six hours to complete.

Course materials include online notes and activities to reinforce the course concepts, references and a discussion forum. Also available is a short animation on the value of art. To find out more about this free OpenCourseWare, visit the art teaching course page.